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Before The Storm #1
Before The Storm
Fifteen-year-old Andy Lockwood is special. Others notice the way he blurts out anything that comes into his mind, how he cannot foresee consequences, and that he's more child than teenager. But his mother sees a boy with a heart as open and wide as the ocean.
Laurel Lockwood lost her son once through neglect. She's spent the rest of her life determined to make up for her mistakes, and she's succeeded in becoming a committed -- if overprotective -- parent.
Still, she loosens her grip just enough to let Andy attend a local church social -- a decision she regrets when the church is consumed by fire.
But Andy survives... and remarkably, saves other children from the flames. Laurel watches as her son becomes the darling of their community, basking in the postive attention he's always craved.
But when the suspicion of arson is cast upon Andy, Laurel will risk everything to prove his innocence. Except she could never have known just how many secrets would surface in her desperate bid to clear his name…
Laurel Lockwood lost her son once through neglect. She's spent the rest of her life determined to make up for her mistakes, and she's succeeded in becoming a committed -- if overprotective -- parent.
Still, she loosens her grip just enough to let Andy attend a local church social -- a decision she regrets when the church is consumed by fire.
But Andy survives... and remarkably, saves other children from the flames. Laurel watches as her son becomes the darling of their community, basking in the postive attention he's always craved.
But when the suspicion of arson is cast upon Andy, Laurel will risk everything to prove his innocence. Except she could never have known just how many secrets would surface in her desperate bid to clear his name…
442 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2007
659 people are currently reading
19043 people want to read
About the author
Diane Chamberlain
79 books15.1k followersDiane Chamberlain is the New York Times, USA Today and (London) Sunday Times best-selling author of 28 novels. The daughter of a school principal who supplied her with a new book almost daily, Diane quickly learned the emotional power of story. Although she wrote many small “books” as a child, she didn’t seriously turn to writing fiction until her early thirties when she was waiting for a delayed doctor’s appointment with nothing more than a pad, a pen, and an idea. She was instantly hooked.
Diane was born and raised in Plainfield, New Jersey and lived for many years in both San Diego and northern Virginia. She received her master’s degree in clinical social work from San Diego State University. Prior to her writing career, she was a hospital social worker in both San Diego and Washington, D.C, and a psychotherapist in private practice in Alexandria, Virginia, working primarily with adolescents.
More than two decades ago, Diane was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, which changed the way she works: She wrote two novels using voice recognition software before new medication allowed her to get back to typing. She feels fortunate that her arthritis is not more severe and that she’s able to enjoy everyday activities as well as keep up with a busy travel schedule.
Diane lives in North Carolina with her significant other, photographer John Pagliuca, and their odd but lovable Shetland Sheepdog, Cole
Diane was born and raised in Plainfield, New Jersey and lived for many years in both San Diego and northern Virginia. She received her master’s degree in clinical social work from San Diego State University. Prior to her writing career, she was a hospital social worker in both San Diego and Washington, D.C, and a psychotherapist in private practice in Alexandria, Virginia, working primarily with adolescents.
More than two decades ago, Diane was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, which changed the way she works: She wrote two novels using voice recognition software before new medication allowed her to get back to typing. She feels fortunate that her arthritis is not more severe and that she’s able to enjoy everyday activities as well as keep up with a busy travel schedule.
Diane lives in North Carolina with her significant other, photographer John Pagliuca, and their odd but lovable Shetland Sheepdog, Cole
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 935 reviews
June 16, 2018
Andy is different from other children. You may not notice it from first glance, but Andy suffers from FASD (Fetal Alcohol Syndrome). His mother, Laurel, has maintained fifteen years of sobriety from alcoholism, a huge accomplishment, but nothing will never change the devastating consequences her drinking wrought. Maggie, Andy's sister, loves him more than life itself and along with her mother, has devoted her life to making sure Andy is safe; but at the same time, she also wants Andy to feel normal and accepted by his peers. During a school lock-in that Maggie had begged her mother to allow Andy to attend, there was a treacherous fire. Three people died, and many were injured. Bystanders saw Andy outside before the fire.
Who is to blame? Could it all smoke and mirrors (no pun intended)? Is Andy really as innocent as he seems?
Diane Chamberlain is a powerhouse. Not only does she write stories that are obsessively readable but she doesn't shy away from hard-hitting topics. In this novel she adeptly discusses issues like fetal alcohol syndrome, postpartum depression, and addiction. I always know I am in the best of hands whenever I pick up a book by Chamberlain. She is one of those authors who, for me, is an 'immediate purchase' when their new release hits the shelves. Speaking of which, The Dream Daughter
comes out October 2nd, and I CANNOT wait!
I have to admit..I'm acting a bit like Veruca Salt from Willy Wonka.
In the mean time, if you haven't read this book.. you should. And my favorite Chamberlain novel, The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, is one not to be missed. That ranks among my favorites of all time.
Diane Chamberlain is a powerhouse. Not only does she write stories that are obsessively readable but she doesn't shy away from hard-hitting topics. In this novel she adeptly discusses issues like fetal alcohol syndrome, postpartum depression, and addiction. I always know I am in the best of hands whenever I pick up a book by Chamberlain. She is one of those authors who, for me, is an 'immediate purchase' when their new release hits the shelves. Speaking of which, The Dream Daughter
comes out October 2nd, and I CANNOT wait! I have to admit..I'm acting a bit like Veruca Salt from Willy Wonka.
In the mean time, if you haven't read this book.. you should. And my favorite Chamberlain novel, The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, is one not to be missed. That ranks among my favorites of all time.
September 1, 2008
Should you measure your life by the mistakes you’ve made? Or whether or not you let those mistakes define your life? “Before the Storm” by Diane Chamberlain is a gut-wrenching tale of mistakes, forgiveness, and endurance. This story made me cry. No, not just cry, but sob. This is NOT a happily ever after tale. This is a getting through and learning to live with what life throws at you tale. There’s so much more that you’ll just have to read the book to understand, but I’ll do my best to give you an idea of what to expect.
This is the story of Laurel. She met the love of her life in college. Jaime. Jaime who was more saint than sinner. Their life was happy until she bore their first child Maggie and was stuck with a serious case of post partum depression which went untreated but left Laurel unattached to Maggie and feeling like a complete failure…at everything! During a separation, Laurel was pulled from her loneliness by Jaime’s brother Marcus. Marcus was the black sheep to Jaime’s golden boy. He deadened his pain with alcohol, and unintentionally taught Laurel to do the same. Their relationship changed one drunken night, but both agreed NEVER to think about it again. Jaime and Laurel got back together…just in time for Laurel to find out she’s pregnant again. Still depressed and spiraling out of control, she continues to deaden her pain with wine coolers—and gives birth to a child with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. That’s Laurel’s wake-up call to turn her life around.
Fourteen years later Laurel is a survivor. ’s life is about to fall apart all over again. She survived Jaime’s death. She survived single parenthood. But now her life is about to fall apart all over again. Her beloved and special son Andy is accused of setting a fire that killed three people, hurt countless others, and destroyed a church. Now she’s fighting to save her son. But there are still secrets to be discovered and the more Laurel learns, the more she wonders if she really knows any of the special people in her life, especially her children.
This novel is written mostly in first person, so if that bothers you, you’ve been warned! The story moves between time and perspective. From Laurel’s early life, to Andy’s view of the world, to Marcus’ efforts to be involved, to Maggie’s heartbreaking efforts to become a woman—they’re all here and each characters words drive the story and plot to its inevitable conclusion. The reader feels the pureness of spirit behind Andy’s actions, the enthusiasm and naiveté of Maggie, Laurel’s desperate attempts to atone for her earlier actions, and Marcus’ efforts to become a better man for all of them. I keep deleting parts of this review so as not to give too much away, but it’s so hard. Even with the time and voice changes, I didn’t get confused. Ms Chamberlain has a talent for pulling the reader INTO the story. So many times I found myself wanting to comfort one character or warn another. I felt the small-town ties and the burdens of everyone knowing too much about everyone else and how actions of youth in a small town can and do follow you forever into adulthood. The bias of have vs have not, old-timer vs newcomer, normal vs not normal, family vs family, religion vs religion and all those other things that pretty much define small town America.
If I keep writing I’ll just give too much away. So if you’re looking for a sweet, pleasant read, then you should just move on along. If you’re looking for a book that will make you think and worry and cry and laugh and likely hug your loved ones a little harder…then please find a copy of “Before the Storm” by Diane Chamberlain. It’s an emotional, yet cathartic read about life, relationships, and learning.
This is the story of Laurel. She met the love of her life in college. Jaime. Jaime who was more saint than sinner. Their life was happy until she bore their first child Maggie and was stuck with a serious case of post partum depression which went untreated but left Laurel unattached to Maggie and feeling like a complete failure…at everything! During a separation, Laurel was pulled from her loneliness by Jaime’s brother Marcus. Marcus was the black sheep to Jaime’s golden boy. He deadened his pain with alcohol, and unintentionally taught Laurel to do the same. Their relationship changed one drunken night, but both agreed NEVER to think about it again. Jaime and Laurel got back together…just in time for Laurel to find out she’s pregnant again. Still depressed and spiraling out of control, she continues to deaden her pain with wine coolers—and gives birth to a child with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. That’s Laurel’s wake-up call to turn her life around.
Fourteen years later Laurel is a survivor. ’s life is about to fall apart all over again. She survived Jaime’s death. She survived single parenthood. But now her life is about to fall apart all over again. Her beloved and special son Andy is accused of setting a fire that killed three people, hurt countless others, and destroyed a church. Now she’s fighting to save her son. But there are still secrets to be discovered and the more Laurel learns, the more she wonders if she really knows any of the special people in her life, especially her children.
This novel is written mostly in first person, so if that bothers you, you’ve been warned! The story moves between time and perspective. From Laurel’s early life, to Andy’s view of the world, to Marcus’ efforts to be involved, to Maggie’s heartbreaking efforts to become a woman—they’re all here and each characters words drive the story and plot to its inevitable conclusion. The reader feels the pureness of spirit behind Andy’s actions, the enthusiasm and naiveté of Maggie, Laurel’s desperate attempts to atone for her earlier actions, and Marcus’ efforts to become a better man for all of them. I keep deleting parts of this review so as not to give too much away, but it’s so hard. Even with the time and voice changes, I didn’t get confused. Ms Chamberlain has a talent for pulling the reader INTO the story. So many times I found myself wanting to comfort one character or warn another. I felt the small-town ties and the burdens of everyone knowing too much about everyone else and how actions of youth in a small town can and do follow you forever into adulthood. The bias of have vs have not, old-timer vs newcomer, normal vs not normal, family vs family, religion vs religion and all those other things that pretty much define small town America.
If I keep writing I’ll just give too much away. So if you’re looking for a sweet, pleasant read, then you should just move on along. If you’re looking for a book that will make you think and worry and cry and laugh and likely hug your loved ones a little harder…then please find a copy of “Before the Storm” by Diane Chamberlain. It’s an emotional, yet cathartic read about life, relationships, and learning.
July 20, 2020
I was so gripped by this. twists and turns everywhere. I felt I was actually there on the island with the characters. I'll definitely be reading the follow up book.
August 12, 2008
I stepped into the pages of Before the Storm by Diane Chamberlain as my daughter born with fetal alcohol and adopted after the death of her birth mother was spiraling into the the abyss of mental health commitments and early adult transitioning challenges. Andy, born exposed prenatally to alcohol, captured my heart and as I watched my daughter toss and tumble into the realm of social services I found myself laying the book down for a moment to catch my breath and breath deeper to understand Laurel, Andy's mother - a very real character who unintentially left the sanity of a happy marriage and life at the birth of her first beautiful and intelligent daughter. She left through the door of undiagnosed post partum depression and filled the hole in her heart with a one night stand leading to the conception of her son, Andy, and a pregnancy filled with tasty wine coolers. I struggled with Laurel as she struggled with her alcoholism and depression knowing what she was creating, understanding the damage she was doing to the small person growing within, knowing with my own angst. I rejoiced in her rehabilitation and eventual reunification of the family. Life itself has many twists and turns and true to life, what often appears to be reality is only bits of truth. Before the Storm does justice to the work of families struggling with alcohol and its many outcomes. It does justrice to the reality of human frailty and interconnected relationships. I look forward to the sequel and hope Diane's work will add awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) to those who need to know.
Jodee Kulp, author and FASD Advocate
The Whitest Wall, Best I Can Be Living With Fetal Alcohol and Our FAScinating Journey
Jodee Kulp, author and FASD Advocate
The Whitest Wall, Best I Can Be Living With Fetal Alcohol and Our FAScinating Journey
July 18, 2008
I found Before the Storm, by Diane Chamberlain, enchanting. Diane Chamberlain is an award-winning author of seventeen novels. She resides in North Carolina.
Laurel Lockwood, due to post-partum depression and alcoholism, lost her son to the system. Returned at a year old, Laurel spent the rest of her life making up for her mistakes and being the best mom she could be to them. Her son, Andy has special needs and she hesitated to let him go to the church lock-in social. The church that night is consumed by fire, trapping the children and chaperones inside. Andy survives and manages to save others, as well. But the hero of the small town quickly turns into a suspect when some witnesses step forward and evidence is found tying him to the arson. Her daughter, Maggie has secrets of her own as the plot unfolds in this twisted investigation. Laurel finds herself asking how well she really knows her kids and how far she was willing to go to protect them.
Taken in first person point of view, from several different sources, makes this book a compelling read. Normally first person is very difficult to make secondary characters stand out and be heard. But this book almost had no secondary characters, as each had a voice. The book also jumped from past to present, seeming as if you are reading two different stories at once. Typically when this is done, it makes the book drag out, but it only engaged me further. Doing this style also can be harder to follow, but that wasn’t the case either.
Diane Chamberlain is a mastermind at crimes of the soul. Before the Storm breaks your heart again and again with each chapter. Amongst this, the investigation is alluring and not at all predictable. There were a few twists the reader will see coming, but the way it was written you can’t help but feel surprised anyhow. And whoa, the ones you don’t see…watch out. The characters were believable and relatable. It’s hard to imagine they are fiction. Even down to the flaws you loved them, rooted for them. The plot flowed well, both the past and the present. I think most of all, I liked that the book was written without giving you a whole picture of the history of the characters or events. You had to learn both in pieces. Very intriguing. Before the Storm is a haunting, powerful, and mesmerizing story, sure to win the hearts of any audience.
Kelly Moran
Author and Reviewer
Laurel Lockwood, due to post-partum depression and alcoholism, lost her son to the system. Returned at a year old, Laurel spent the rest of her life making up for her mistakes and being the best mom she could be to them. Her son, Andy has special needs and she hesitated to let him go to the church lock-in social. The church that night is consumed by fire, trapping the children and chaperones inside. Andy survives and manages to save others, as well. But the hero of the small town quickly turns into a suspect when some witnesses step forward and evidence is found tying him to the arson. Her daughter, Maggie has secrets of her own as the plot unfolds in this twisted investigation. Laurel finds herself asking how well she really knows her kids and how far she was willing to go to protect them.
Taken in first person point of view, from several different sources, makes this book a compelling read. Normally first person is very difficult to make secondary characters stand out and be heard. But this book almost had no secondary characters, as each had a voice. The book also jumped from past to present, seeming as if you are reading two different stories at once. Typically when this is done, it makes the book drag out, but it only engaged me further. Doing this style also can be harder to follow, but that wasn’t the case either.
Diane Chamberlain is a mastermind at crimes of the soul. Before the Storm breaks your heart again and again with each chapter. Amongst this, the investigation is alluring and not at all predictable. There were a few twists the reader will see coming, but the way it was written you can’t help but feel surprised anyhow. And whoa, the ones you don’t see…watch out. The characters were believable and relatable. It’s hard to imagine they are fiction. Even down to the flaws you loved them, rooted for them. The plot flowed well, both the past and the present. I think most of all, I liked that the book was written without giving you a whole picture of the history of the characters or events. You had to learn both in pieces. Very intriguing. Before the Storm is a haunting, powerful, and mesmerizing story, sure to win the hearts of any audience.
Kelly Moran
Author and Reviewer
August 28, 2013
This is my 5th Diane Chamberlain novel, and like all the rest, once I begin, it is very difficult to stop; the chapters just seem to fly by. Sometimes I do feel there is a predictability to her stories, but then a big surprise reveals itself that I did not see coming which is also true in Before the Storm.
Loved it!
November 4, 2016
As the first in a two-part series, I enjoyed this story following several different characters - told alternately - as their lives become interwoven and complex, as per standard Chamberlain territory. The author is talented at her genre; family relationship sagas with a good dose of mystery, romance and drama melted in.
Andy was born with the developmental disability Foetal Alcohol Syndrome as a result of his mothers addiction during pregnancy. He sees the world optimistically and rather naively - everyone is his friend whether they actually like him or not. When Andy is accused of multiple counts of manslaughter, his mother Laurel vows to prove him innocent.
Having been a fan of Chamberlain for several years, my latest read did not disappoint. I wasn't utterly moved close to tears as I have been with some of her other novels, but I was intrigued nonetheless and finished this relatively long book in a couple of days.
I would have liked to have come away from this story knowing more about FAS, however I appreciate this to be a work of fiction and the author only has so much space to fill before it treads into textbook territory (think Lisa Genova's 'Left Neglected').
A worth while read. Recommended for fans of the genre.
Andy was born with the developmental disability Foetal Alcohol Syndrome as a result of his mothers addiction during pregnancy. He sees the world optimistically and rather naively - everyone is his friend whether they actually like him or not. When Andy is accused of multiple counts of manslaughter, his mother Laurel vows to prove him innocent.
Having been a fan of Chamberlain for several years, my latest read did not disappoint. I wasn't utterly moved close to tears as I have been with some of her other novels, but I was intrigued nonetheless and finished this relatively long book in a couple of days.
I would have liked to have come away from this story knowing more about FAS, however I appreciate this to be a work of fiction and the author only has so much space to fill before it treads into textbook territory (think Lisa Genova's 'Left Neglected').
A worth while read. Recommended for fans of the genre.
March 4, 2013
While it was filled with many unlikeable people, I did enjoy this story well enough up until the ending when it all fell apart.
I felt it was implausible, if not downright impossible, to believe that the arsonist would wait as long as they did to confess, given who was accused and how far the repercussions of those accusations were reaching. No decent human being (which we're led to believe the arsonist is) could stand by and watch someone they care about go through the hell the accused was subjected to. It would take a sociopath, certainly not someone I can feel sorry for.
And with all the jerky behavior exhibited, it's hard to be glad for the happy ending many of the perpetrators get in the end. It was well written, which just made it worse. I previously read The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, which I liked, and I will give Diane Chamberlain another shot to impress me before I give up on her.
Any suggestions?
I felt it was implausible, if not downright impossible, to believe that the arsonist would wait as long as they did to confess, given who was accused and how far the repercussions of those accusations were reaching. No decent human being (which we're led to believe the arsonist is) could stand by and watch someone they care about go through the hell the accused was subjected to. It would take a sociopath, certainly not someone I can feel sorry for.
And with all the jerky behavior exhibited, it's hard to be glad for the happy ending many of the perpetrators get in the end. It was well written, which just made it worse. I previously read The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, which I liked, and I will give Diane Chamberlain another shot to impress me before I give up on her.
Any suggestions?
May 14, 2019
After checking this out from the library three or four times, I finally got around to reading it. I can usually count on Diane Chamberlain whenever I need a little melodrama, and she didn’t let me down here. I found one of its central plot points, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, very interesting, since I don’t recall coming across it in a book recently. I’ll be reading the follow-up book to continue on with these characters.
March 6, 2019
Since I couldn't put this book down, I felt it deserved a 5 from me. It's funny though, because I didn't think I would like this story based on the blurb so I put it off for years even though this is one of my favorite authors. I loved how in this book and others of hers she reveals secrets in the lives of the characters in such a way throughout the book that keeps you pulled into story. She also tackles tough situations in a way that doesn't excuse what the characters do but oftentimes makes you feel understanding and even compassion for them despite their flaws. Now onto the second book in this series that has been sitting on my shelves for years because I needed to read this one first.
August 6, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, interesting characters, engaging plot and well written. I loved that it was told from different character perspectives, Andy's chapters were definitely my favourite and they were so well written for his character. There were some good twists and turns that I didn't expect. Overall a very good read.
January 24, 2022
oi patinka man si autore, kiekviena kart mane apgauna🙊🙈🙉
February 2, 2019
An engrossing family saga. Hard to put down. Lots of twists and turns.
Diane Chamberlain is the New York Times, USA Today and Sunday Times bestselling author of 26 novels published in more than twenty languages. Influenced by her former career as a social worker and psychotherapist, she writes suspenseful stories that touch both heart and mind.
Andy is 15 years old and suffers from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. His understanding of things is very straightforward; he takes things literally. His mother loves him dearly and sees within him a heart of gold.
The story starts with Andy attending a Church Lock-In event for teens. A serious fire breaks out, trapping many inside. But Andy in his innocence and lack of fear, leads many out a bathroom window. He becomes a hero.
But, as the investigation rolls forward, arson is determined, and Andy, himself, becomes a suspect.
Who started the fire, and why? Who really are these people in Andy's world.
A gripping family drama; I WAS entertained. I have read many of Chamberlain's books. This, one of her early ones, is thoughtful and well-written.
4 Stars
Diane Chamberlain is the New York Times, USA Today and Sunday Times bestselling author of 26 novels published in more than twenty languages. Influenced by her former career as a social worker and psychotherapist, she writes suspenseful stories that touch both heart and mind.
Andy is 15 years old and suffers from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. His understanding of things is very straightforward; he takes things literally. His mother loves him dearly and sees within him a heart of gold.
The story starts with Andy attending a Church Lock-In event for teens. A serious fire breaks out, trapping many inside. But Andy in his innocence and lack of fear, leads many out a bathroom window. He becomes a hero.
But, as the investigation rolls forward, arson is determined, and Andy, himself, becomes a suspect.
Who started the fire, and why? Who really are these people in Andy's world.
A gripping family drama; I WAS entertained. I have read many of Chamberlain's books. This, one of her early ones, is thoughtful and well-written.
4 Stars
June 9, 2015
Before The Storm is a complex family story filled with suspense, secrets and heart wrenching emotions. It is a story of hope and with a message that past mistakes can be overcome. Looking forward to the sequel.
Read
July 2, 2008Did not like this book or the characters. I have read and enjoyed most of Diane Chamberlain's books but this one fell flat. I have no patience with people wallowing in self pity such as alcoholics. Laurel Lockwood, the main character, was a nurse who should have known that she needed the help that was offered for her depression following the birth of her daughter. Two children were mentally injured by Laurel's poor choices. Maybe the wrong person was sent to jail.
June 27, 2008
Recently called the "Southern Jodi Picoult," Diane Chamberlain is an author you must read. This book is the first I've read from her, and definatley not the last. Surprises, twists, in depth character development, truely a gifted writer. This book is a quick easy read, great for the beach or vacations or just about anywhere. Let me know what you think.
September 19, 2008
This book was a real page-turner. It is a very easy read and keeps you thinking. There is a great twist at the end.
August 5, 2016
Another good novel by Diane Chamberlain with in depth character development and many twists and turns. I thought I had it figured out but the ending was a complete surprise. Easy, enjoyable read.
September 1, 2015
Laurel and Jamie fell in love serendipitously, almost as if the events that brought them together were fated. An accident between her car and his motorcycle, but with no injuries. But they both knew right away that they were destined to be together.
When Laurel got pregnant, they got married, and everything was perfect. Until after their daughter Maggie was born. Laurel's depression and how she felt nothing for the baby might have started when she and the baby were separated shortly after the birth due to her hemorrhaging...but what continued afterwards could only have been an undiagnosed case of Postpartum Depression. Soon Laurel and Jamie were living separate lives, with Jamie and Maggie staying with their friends Steve and Sara.
Meanwhile, Laurel slept and drank a lot, and turned for comfort from Jamie's brother Marcus, who lived next door. What was set in motion soon escalated, and then an unexpected pregnancy catapulted them all into a storm of emotions, secrets, and lies.
Before the Storm was set on Topsail Island in North Carolina, and the Lockwood family, to which Jamie and Marcus belonged, was wealthy and privileged, but their family dynamics left much to be desired. Jamie was the "perfect" son and Marcus, the bad boy.
What subsequent events would forever change the landscape of their lives? How did Laurel's drinking during her pregnancy result in her son Andy's disabilities? And how would those very problems turn into tragedy during one summer when he was just fifteen years old? A church fire, pointed fingers, and a series of misunderstandings would lead to more complications. Would the truth ever come out?
Multiple narrators told the story: Laurel, Marcus, Maggie, and Andy, and each character's voice was distinctive. The story flashed back to the past and then forward to the present; the mystery of what happened during that summer night would keep this reader guessing until almost the end...and then the reveal would be stunning. 4.5 stars.
When Laurel got pregnant, they got married, and everything was perfect. Until after their daughter Maggie was born. Laurel's depression and how she felt nothing for the baby might have started when she and the baby were separated shortly after the birth due to her hemorrhaging...but what continued afterwards could only have been an undiagnosed case of Postpartum Depression. Soon Laurel and Jamie were living separate lives, with Jamie and Maggie staying with their friends Steve and Sara.
Meanwhile, Laurel slept and drank a lot, and turned for comfort from Jamie's brother Marcus, who lived next door. What was set in motion soon escalated, and then an unexpected pregnancy catapulted them all into a storm of emotions, secrets, and lies.
Before the Storm was set on Topsail Island in North Carolina, and the Lockwood family, to which Jamie and Marcus belonged, was wealthy and privileged, but their family dynamics left much to be desired. Jamie was the "perfect" son and Marcus, the bad boy.
What subsequent events would forever change the landscape of their lives? How did Laurel's drinking during her pregnancy result in her son Andy's disabilities? And how would those very problems turn into tragedy during one summer when he was just fifteen years old? A church fire, pointed fingers, and a series of misunderstandings would lead to more complications. Would the truth ever come out?
Multiple narrators told the story: Laurel, Marcus, Maggie, and Andy, and each character's voice was distinctive. The story flashed back to the past and then forward to the present; the mystery of what happened during that summer night would keep this reader guessing until almost the end...and then the reveal would be stunning. 4.5 stars.
March 31, 2009
After reading "The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes" I added Chamberlain's name to my list of authors to read and I'm not sorry I picked up "Before the Storm". A complex, skillfully written story is told from the prospective of the main characters involved in the life of Andy Lockwood, a fetal alcohol baby, his mother, Laurel, sister, Maggie, and Uncle Marcus and you wind up not knowing who to feel the sorriest for.
August 2, 2008
I enjoyed her most recent book so much (The Secret Life of Cee-Cee Wilkes), that I picked up this other novel that Chamberlain wrote. She has a style really similar to Jodi Piccoult's - definitely keeps your attention through the whole book and develops the different characters well. Great beach reading.
September 2, 2008
This book had so much going on.The main character I didn't think I was going to like and while there was so many upsetting things about the stroyline i really enjoyed the book.A great one one a flawed family.It really pulled at my heart strings and made me want to slap and hug the family at the same time.
September 1, 2017
This story was full of topics that are of interest to me, mainly because of my job. I felt his had a good contrast of tragedy, warmth and intrigue and the characters were portrayed really well. I liked that each person told their own story and it flowed really well. I'll be getting straight on to part 2!
September 3, 2008
This was another great book from Diane Chamberlain...I'm so glad I picked it up. There was never a slow moment in this one. I loved how it was told from all the character's points of view throughout the story. It surprised me at the end even when I thought I had it figured out!
September 15, 2008
Wow - things aren't always what they seem....
December 22, 2013
This was filled with more twists and turns than a soap opera script writer could think of in a year. I didn't find the characters very likeable. Not one of my favorites of Diane Chamberlain.
November 15, 2023
4.5 stars
I found this at a used book store and realized then that it was the first novel of a 2 book series. I read the sequel a couple years ago. So it was interesting to read this afterwards. I enjoyed "What She Left Behind", but didn't love it. I remember thinking it didn't have much depth. This was definitely not an issue with this book. Knowing some of the outcomes before they were revealed (especially people's relationships) was an interesting take. I don't think reading them "backwards" ruined this one for me, just changed my perspective. However, I do believe I would have enjoyed the sequel more if I read this one first.
I found this at a used book store and realized then that it was the first novel of a 2 book series. I read the sequel a couple years ago. So it was interesting to read this afterwards. I enjoyed "What She Left Behind", but didn't love it. I remember thinking it didn't have much depth. This was definitely not an issue with this book. Knowing some of the outcomes before they were revealed (especially people's relationships) was an interesting take. I don't think reading them "backwards" ruined this one for me, just changed my perspective. However, I do believe I would have enjoyed the sequel more if I read this one first.
June 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Making my way through all of this authors books - they never disappoint
Making my way through all of this authors books - they never disappoint
December 8, 2024
The ending!!!!! Never saw that coming and I'm not sure how I feel about it...lol. This is a great book!
October 3, 2012
This book had me from the first page.....I knew the main character, Andy, had Fetal Alcohol Syndrome as a friend who recommended the book to me had told me....I don’t feel this is a spoiler because you learn this piece of information early in the book. I know very little about FAS and yet I KNOW this boy intimately and I LOVE this boy like my own....he is a fictional boy version of my oldest daughter....and he gives a voice to my son....and he is an expressive version of my youngest daughter....he is my three amazing children wrapped up in one amazing boy.
In my opinion, Diane Chamberlain is brilliantly skilled with written words and characters....the way Andy describes his feelings and perspectives is so authentic....bugs crawling in his muscles...; the way Andy relates to others; what is most important to Andy (how he wants to celebrate that he was a hero and how he learns from his mother about bragging, how he skims over the deaths because he was a hero); the way Andy processes a situation, always remembering specific lessons to apply to a situation instead of using flexible thinking....these are just a few components of Andy.... The literal interpretations, like the lighter that could not carried on the plane....I know this is exactly how my oldest girl would interpret that sign....one difference though is the reaction...I don’t think my daughter would try to hide it...I think she would panic and cry and stop and not know what to do.
And it’s not just Andy....his mother, his sister, his Uncle – wow, together, they are me....I love this description from Andy’s sister’s point of view: “As a mother, Mom was borderline okay. She was smart and she could be cool sometimes, but she loved Andy so much that she suffocated him, and she didn’t have a clue. My brother was my biggest worry. Probably ninety-five percent of my time, I thought about him. Even when I thought about other things, he was still in a little corner of my mind, the same way I knew that it was spring or that we lived in North Carolina or that I was female.” So true....when you have a special needs child/sibling, EVERYTHING you do and think about revolves around him/her no matter how subtle.
The first Diane Chamberlain book I read was The Secret Life Of CeeCee Wilkes – I was enthralled with her writing and excited to read more....I gave that book a very easy 5 stars....and I still believe that book fully deserves that rating. But Before The Storm just raised the bar! To me, this book is off the charts...5 stars does not cut it ! Diane’s writing is such a pleasure to read....you just read...you never have to stop to figure things out, to go back to read something twice; you never stumble over grammar or complexities.... it’s just smooth!....and yet the characters and the plot are never simplistic....and are so full of emotion....a treasure to find a book like this.
When I read, I typically skim through the flashbacks searching for the information I need to know to understand what is happening in the current story...they are usually boring, dragging portions of a story, revealing one piece of information that might have better been woven into the story in another way - but Ms. Chamberlain writes in a way that make me want to read every word of the flashbacks and want for more....the flashbacks don’t just give you more information about the character and why they behave or act the way they do...they are more than that...they have a little bit of suspense to them to, a story of their own. In The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, the flashback was the main story....In this book, what begins as a flashback, ends up as the second story weaving and catching up and finally meshing with the present. Nothing in the book can ever be said to be 'filler' - everything moves the story forward !
At this point this is only the second book of Diane Chamberlain’s that I have read....and yet I can confidently say that she is my new favourite author....
In my opinion, Diane Chamberlain is brilliantly skilled with written words and characters....the way Andy describes his feelings and perspectives is so authentic....bugs crawling in his muscles...; the way Andy relates to others; what is most important to Andy (how he wants to celebrate that he was a hero and how he learns from his mother about bragging, how he skims over the deaths because he was a hero); the way Andy processes a situation, always remembering specific lessons to apply to a situation instead of using flexible thinking....these are just a few components of Andy.... The literal interpretations, like the lighter that could not carried on the plane....I know this is exactly how my oldest girl would interpret that sign....one difference though is the reaction...I don’t think my daughter would try to hide it...I think she would panic and cry and stop and not know what to do.
And it’s not just Andy....his mother, his sister, his Uncle – wow, together, they are me....I love this description from Andy’s sister’s point of view: “As a mother, Mom was borderline okay. She was smart and she could be cool sometimes, but she loved Andy so much that she suffocated him, and she didn’t have a clue. My brother was my biggest worry. Probably ninety-five percent of my time, I thought about him. Even when I thought about other things, he was still in a little corner of my mind, the same way I knew that it was spring or that we lived in North Carolina or that I was female.” So true....when you have a special needs child/sibling, EVERYTHING you do and think about revolves around him/her no matter how subtle.
The first Diane Chamberlain book I read was The Secret Life Of CeeCee Wilkes – I was enthralled with her writing and excited to read more....I gave that book a very easy 5 stars....and I still believe that book fully deserves that rating. But Before The Storm just raised the bar! To me, this book is off the charts...5 stars does not cut it ! Diane’s writing is such a pleasure to read....you just read...you never have to stop to figure things out, to go back to read something twice; you never stumble over grammar or complexities.... it’s just smooth!....and yet the characters and the plot are never simplistic....and are so full of emotion....a treasure to find a book like this.
When I read, I typically skim through the flashbacks searching for the information I need to know to understand what is happening in the current story...they are usually boring, dragging portions of a story, revealing one piece of information that might have better been woven into the story in another way - but Ms. Chamberlain writes in a way that make me want to read every word of the flashbacks and want for more....the flashbacks don’t just give you more information about the character and why they behave or act the way they do...they are more than that...they have a little bit of suspense to them to, a story of their own. In The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, the flashback was the main story....In this book, what begins as a flashback, ends up as the second story weaving and catching up and finally meshing with the present. Nothing in the book can ever be said to be 'filler' - everything moves the story forward !
At this point this is only the second book of Diane Chamberlain’s that I have read....and yet I can confidently say that she is my new favourite author....
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